The rugged beauty of Mexico’s Pacific coast has long been a haven for surfers, hippies, and those seeking a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. And now, with the opening of the new Barranca Larga-Ventanilla highway, this stunning stretch of coastline is more accessible than ever.
Join me on a journey along Oaxaca’s Pacific coast, where crystal-clear waters meet towering Sierra Madre mountains and vibrant beach towns offer a unique blend of adventure and serenity. From the stylish party town of Puerto Escondido to the secluded beaches of Zipolite and Mazunte, we’ll explore the region’s hidden gems and discover why this stretch of coastline is an absolute must-visit destination.
A Day on Two Wheels
We begin our journey in Puerto Escondido, a bustling beach town that has equal parts vibrant nightlife and stunning natural beauty. We rented a motorbike and hit the road, cruising south along Highway 200 as it hugs the coast. The scenery is breathtaking – soaring mountains to one side and crashing waves to the other.
As we ride, we pause to let herded goats cross our path and politely decline offers from roadside liquor salesmen peddling “mezcalito” for the road. Our first stop is Zipolite, a laid-back beach town that’s become a haven for LGBTQ+ travelers and surfers alike. We disembark and head straight for the sand, where stark-naked sunbathers glance our way – this is a nudist beach, after all.
Serenity and Sunsets
As we explore Zipolite, we’re struck by its tranquil atmosphere. Longboarders ride the waves, soothed by the soothing combination of Pacific-coast sun and oceanic white noise. We grab a bite to eat at Xhuba, a beachfront restaurant serving fresh seafood and local specialties.
After lunch, we continue our journey south to Mazunte, where we’ll spend the night. This charming beach town is home to a thriving expat community, with many artists and entrepreneurs calling it home. We park our motorbike on one of the town’s palm-canopied streets and stroll down slim, beach-front laneways, taking in the laid-back vibe.
The Turtle Release
As we settle in for the night, we’re treated to a surreal spectacle – the turtle release. Hundreds of olive ridley turtles emerge from their shells and make their way towards the sea, watched over by conservationists at the Mexican Turtle Centre. This is an arribada, as it’s dubbed locally, and it’s a truly unforgettable experience.
As night falls, we sit on the beach and watch the turtles scamper towards another scarlet sunset – a breathtaking end to our journey along Oaxaca’s Pacific coast.
Getting There
The new Barranca Larga-Ventanilla highway makes it easy to get to Puerto Escondido from Oaxaca City. The drive takes just three hours, making this stunning stretch of coastline more accessible than ever.
Oaxaca’s Pacific coast is a destination that has something for everyone – adventure, serenity, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re a surfer, an artist, or just looking for a tranquil escape from the city, this stretch of coastline is an absolute must-visit destination. Come and discover its secrets for yourself!
Source: National Geographics
